SINCE its inception, the United Nations has been tasked with maintaining international peace and security. However, a closer examination of its track record reveals significant failures, often resulting from indecision, selective application of international norms, and the influence of powerful member states.

Indecision and selective application of international norms have led to grave consequences, such as in Syria, Bosnia, and Rwanda. The ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict further illustrates the UN’s inability to effectively respond, underscoring the pressing need for reform.

In the recent event, the UN has failed to enforce multiple resolutions condemning Israel’s actions, including its occupation of Palestinian territories and construction of illegal settlements. The United States has consistently used its veto power to shield Israel from criticism, rendering the UN irrelevant in finding a peaceful resolution.

To restore the UN’s credibility in conflict resolution, certain reforms must be implemented. First, the veto system, which frequently obstructs progress, should undergo comprehensive restructuring. The complete halt of peace initiatives resulting from the veto power undermines the core principles upon which the UN was founded. By limiting the use of the veto in cases involving mass atrocities and humanitarian crises, decision-making paralysis can be prevented.

Introducing term limits for permanent members would prevent the stagnation of ideas and create an environment that fosters fresh perspectives. Such a reform would ensure different countries can represent their interests on the global stage, cultivating a more inclusive and dynamic UN Security Council (UNSC).

Expanding the membership of the UNSC to include influential countries like India, Brazil, Germany, Japan, and African nations would enhance its representativeness and legitimacy. This expansion would foster a more balanced decision-making process, better reflecting the current global power structure. Moreover, involving regional organisations and encouraging collaboration with regional actors would provide a deeper understanding of regional issues and improve the efficacy of peacekeeping efforts.

The UN must reform its internal decision-making procedures to address emerging crises swiftly and efficiently. Implementing mechanisms that reduce bureaucratic hurdles and enable rapid responses could significantly improve the organisation’s ability to maintain peace and security worldwide. This reform would ensure necessary actions are taken promptly to prevent escalation and protect civilians.

The UN should facilitate the greater involvement of civil society actors in conflict resolution processes. Their participation can inject diverse perspectives and solutions while exerting moral and social pressure on the warring parties to seek peaceful resolutions.

The failure of the UN to effectively maintain peace, particularly in the Israel-Palestine conflict, emphasises the urgent necessity for reform. By restructuring the veto system, enlarging the membership to include emerging powers, implementing term limits for permanent members, and involving civil society actors in the resolution process, the UN can regain relevance and effectiveness in conflict resolution.

These reforms will pave the way for a more equitable, inclusive, and efficient international community working collaboratively to safeguard global peace and security. – January 9, 2024.

* Ashraff Hussni reads The Malaysian Insight.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.